A Perfect Storm of Vulnerability: Beijing's Delicate Dance with Nature The news out of Beijing is a stark reminder that even in the 21st century, cities can still be at the mercy of the elements.
As Typhoon Dolphin bears down on the Chinese capital, forecasters warn that more than one third of its annual rainfall will dump onto the city's already sodden streets over the next 24 hours.
This is a stark illustration of the vulnerability that underpins modern urban planning.